NEWS RELEASE

MAYOR MASIELLO ANNOUNCES FORMATION OF MARKET ARCADE FILM & ARTS CENTRE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

BUFFALO (11/19/00) - Seeking the expertise of the private sector in managing the Market Arcade Film & Arts Centre, Mayor Anthony M. Masiello today announced the formation of a Board of Directors for the Theatre District's lone cinema venue.

Once operated by General Cinema and Anjelika, the Market Arcade Film & Arts Centre is currently operated by Dipson Theatres of Buffalo. The creation of the new Board of Directors reflects a universal belief within the theatre district that the venue can play important role in the mix of entertainment opportunities downtown. The concept of the Board of Directors came from the successful management of Rotary Rink by Buffalo Place, Inc.

"The Theatre District has continued to evolve as one of our city's most important cultural centers," stated Mayor Masiello. "The presence of the Market Arcade Film & Arts Centre adds an important entertainment option for anyone interested in cinema, particularly for unique programs such as University at Buffalo Professor Bruce Jackson's popular classic film symposia. I am grateful to the individuals who have agreed to join the new Board of Directors for the Film & Arts Centre; their varied expertise will add vitality, diversity and creative entertainment activities for this locale."

The Board of Directors (see attached) is comprised of thirteen appointments. Eight appointments come the Mayor (Neufeld, Malley, Lawson, Jackson, Fagan, Chiasera, Fisher and Boswell), three from Buffalo Place Inc. (Colucci, Schmand and Gallagher) and two from the Theatre District Association (Militello and Serra).

It is expected that the Board, created to provide assistance in cultural programming, performance venue operation and management of the Centre, will explore multi-media opportunities for the venue, including: live theatre entertainment, film festivals and live music in the Centre's spacious lobby.

The creation of the Board of Directors comes at a time when the Theatre District continues to gain strength. Recent investments in Shea's Performing Arts Center, the Studio Arena, the new B District police station and improved lighting on Main Street have all contributed to the District's increasing vitality.

The early leadership of M&T Bank, Buffalo Place, Shea's, Studio Arena and the Bijou Grille helped spearhead the effort to create the Market Arcade Film & Arts Centre Board of Directors.

"What's important, is that the various stakeholders of the Theatre District recognized the value of a vital Film and Arts Centre," noted the Mayor. "They stepped forward; they helped provide the momentum and incentive to create a body of representatives who can provide expertise and leadership for this critically important component of the Theatre District. I applaud their vision and commitment."

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